Looking Back & Moving Forward

Since opening in 2008, the Edith Bolling Wilson Birthplace Museum has shared the story of Edith Bolling (Galt) Wilson—her early life in Wytheville, Virginia, and her remarkable contributions to our nation. Mrs. Wilson (1872–1961), the second wife of President Woodrow Wilson and the 24th First Lady of the United States, served from 1915 to 1921. Following the President’s debilitating stroke, she played a critical and controversial role by screening matters of state on his behalf—an unprecedented action that later helped inspire the 25th Amendment.
While the museum stands proudly among other First Lady and women’s history sites, it remains the only birthplace museum of a First Lady in Virginia. The museum welcomes visitors from all 50 states and countries around the world through tours, school programs, Girl Scout visits, and community events.
Over the past decade, the museum has grown from a grassroots effort into a nationally recognized institution. Soon after its founding, the museum hired its first director and, with the support of its co-founders and a small board, began offering tours of the unrestored Bolling Home. In 2010, the Foundation welcomed a newly appointed Board of Trustees, chaired by Bill Smith, principal of Smith Enterprises. At the time, Smith shared his vision for the museum to become “a strong historical resource...leading us further in becoming a national destination, bringing the importance of Mrs. Wilson’s story to greater public awareness.” Today, that vision continues to guide the museum’s mission and work.
The museum’s collection of artifacts—mostly acquired through the efforts of co-founder Farron Smith—highlights the legacy of the prominent Bolling family of Virginia. In recent years, visitor interest has expanded to include Edith Wilson’s later life: her leadership as First Lady during World War I, her stewardship of the presidency during the President’s illness, and her post-White House role as owner of Galt & Brother Jewelers. These themes are brought to life through exhibitions and programs that inspire leadership modeled on Edith herself—fearless, determined, and persistent.
Today, the museum continues to evolve. Recent accomplishments include the completion of the Museum Assessment Program and a comprehensive Historic Structures Report - both providing roadmaps for future preservation and growth. Additionally, the museum has revitalized and expanded the Board of Trustees into a working board with an active committee structure which supports an executive director, visitor services staff, and an education coordinator. The board, who governs the museum, consists of a diverse and international representation of community members, museum professionals, scholars, and those with business acumen. The museum staff and Board continue with the important undertaking of a future strategic planning process, updating exhibits, planning for historic preservation projects, and expanding educational programming. This work provides a pivotal moment for the museum as it positions itself in the future as a historic site of national significance and in telling the relevant and impactful story of Edith Bolling Wilson. 
This work provides a pivotal moment for the museum to broaden outreach and expand programming to a larger audience. As we continue to preserve and interpret Edith Bolling Wilson’s legacy, we position the museum as a nationally significant historic site—telling a relevant, inspiring story that resonates with today’s leaders and changemakers.
To all our supporters, friends, and community: thank you for your ongoing enthusiasm, encouragement, and support. We look forward to continuing this journey with you as we move boldly into the future.

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